Pioneer 520 and 500 side-by-sides deliver impressive performance in small packages
When it comes to four-wheel rec/utility powersports, versatility is the name of the game, and today’s announcement of returning Honda side-by-side models serves as a reminder of the brand’s offering of remarkably capable multipurpose offerings.
Included are Honda’s smallest side-by-sides—the Pioneer 520 and Pioneer 500—both of which are back for the 2023 model year, touting strong performance and exceptional value.
“We’re thrilled to be taking on this exciting new challenge,” said Jordan Davis, CEO of Volcon ePowersports. “Off-road racing is a demanding sport that requires not only speed and agility, but also toughness and durability. We believe that our electric vehicles are more than up to the task, and we can’t wait to prove it on track. It also serves as the perfect test bench for our vehicles and partner technologies to be pushed in the most challenging environments, so we know we’ve done due diligence before customers take delivery.” The announcement comes as one of the first initiatives of the Volcon Technology Innovation Group (VTIG). VTIG is a division of Volcon that explores advanced technologies to improve and evolve current, and future Volcon products, and will be the first UTV brand to co-develop directly with BFGoodrich on new EV tire and other technologies.
“We’re pleased to confirm the return of our Pioneer 520 and 500 side-by-sides, as well as three families from our FourTrax ATV range,” said Brandon Wilson, American Honda Manager of Sports & Experiential. “These vehicles share the ability to perform work on the ranch, farm or worksite, while also being trail-ready for the weekends, embracing the do-it-all ethos of multipurpose powersports.”
2023 Pioneer 520
Purpose-built to get more done and have more fun, Honda’s Pioneer 520 is ready to check tasks off the “to-do” list. Its narrow chassis dimensions unlock access to width-restricted trails, but this little rec/utility side-by-side is far more capable than its size might suggest. Its reliable 518cc engine is up to the job, and the independent front and rear suspension ensures comfort and control across varied terrain. The dump bed handles up to 450 pounds of tools, supplies or equipment, and a wide range of available Honda Pro-Connect™ accessories offer additional cargo solutions for both work and play. Fun, rugged, reliable and U.S.-designed and -manufactured, the Pioneer 520 is truly multipurpose—a great side-by-side for the family farm.
- MSRP: $9,999
- Colors: Avenger Red; Black Forest Green; Sandstone Beige; Krypton Green
- Available: March
2023 Pioneer 500
With an ideal blend of efficient, compact design and well-rounded performance, the Pioneer 500 is a remarkably capable entry point into the world of side-by-sides, a great fit everywhere from the job site to the trailhead. Thanks to its narrow 50-inch width, this compact multipurpose side-by-side has access to width-restricted trails, and it fits in a full-size pickup-truck bed for convenient transportation. When it comes to pulling its weight around the family farm or job site, the 450-pound-rated rear-rack and 1,000-pound towing capacity make quick work of the tasks at hand. Plus, the Pioneer 500 carries the Honda tradition of superior durability, quality and reliability—all at a great value.
- MSRP: $8,999
- Colors: Avenger Red; Black Forest Green
- Available: March
